CoE Issues Warning for Snake Season: Stay Alert and Take Precautions

The City of Ekurhuleni advises residents to remain cautious as snake season commences with spring and warmer weather. According to Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, this period typically runs from mid-August to the end of May, when venomous and harmless snakes become more active in search of food.

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Dlamini highlighted two dangerous species of snakes: puff adders, known for their intuitive nature and quick recognition of threats, and rinkhals, a fast-moving snake capable of feigning death with distinct white stripes across its neck when threatened.

Pet owners are specifically cautioned to watch over their animals, as they might fall victim to snakes. While dangerous snakes should be approached with caution, the community is encouraged to show restraint when encountering non-dangerous species such as the red-lipped snake, brown house snake, Aurora house snake, olive house snake, and red-lipped snake, commonly found in garden areas as they prey on rodents.

Despite their relatively harmless nature, capturing or killing these snakes as pets is discouraged, as it is illegal and subject to penalties unless done with the appropriate permits. For residents facing snake encounters, the city has designated snake catchers who can be contacted for assistance:

Makhosonke Mabena: 071 833 6549
Sonny Katisa: 073 988 8131.

Source: ‘Be careful its snake season’ warns CoE

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Photo: Supplied by Citizen